About the Book and Author
This is a stand alone adventure story for readers aged 5-8 years is about a brave and spirited girl called Betsy and her forty-four tiny mice.
The book is magnificantly illustrated throughout in hues of red and pink by artist Ashley King. Our young reviewer thought that Ashley’s pictures really helped her to imagine the story. It is published by Little Tiger Press
When Fry’s Circus of Wonders pitches its tent opposite Betsy’s house, Betsy feels a strange sense of longing. But Grandad can’t even bear to look at it – it stirs up too many painful memories of Grandma’s days as a circus performer.
As her parents rally round Grandad, Betsy slips away to see the show, but Betsy isn’t the only one enjoying the spectacle – her forty-four mice have escaped and seem intent on gatecrashing the magic act! Is Betsy brave enough to face the ring-master ?
Sylvia Bishop is the author of the much-loved ERICA’S ELEPHANT and THE BOOKSHOP GIRL. When not writing, Sylvia is also one half of improvised comedy duo the Peablossom Cabaret.
Ashley King is an illustrator who graduated with a 1st Class Honours Degree in Illustration and Animation. Since graduating, Ashley has gone on to specialise in children’s book illustration, with titles including ERICA’S ELEPHANT and the 44 TINY SECRETS series.
Book Review
You will really enjoy it. I give this book two big thumbs up!
I think other children should read this book because it is funny and a little bit scary, but has a happy ending. I think it is perfect.
The illustrations are beautiful. I liked that they were all in the same colours. They helped me to see what was happening in the story. I especially liked the picture of Betsy dressed in a chicken suit!
I really liked Betsy’s African pigmy mice. They are very obedient and even when they are being very naughty Betsy just has to say “HOME” and they will come with her. They get into lots of mischief, which is funny.
I totally got tricked by the ringmaster when he gave Betsy a job. I thought he was quite kind- but it turned out he wasn’t! I’m not going to tell you why cause I don’t want to spoil the surprise. But you will really enjoy it.
I give this book two big thumbs up!
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Whichever you choose, we hope you enjoy being part of your unique reading community – happy reading everyone!
Reviewer Profile
- Name: Lyra
- Age: 7 years
- Likes: reading, drawing and writing
- Dislikes: being quiet and standing still
- Favourite Book: Pages & Co by Anna James
- Favourite Film: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
- Favourite Song: My Love is like Red Red Rose
